Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Changeling Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ‘ถ๐Ÿผ
Add to dictionary

changeling

[หˆสงeษชnสคlษชล‹ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

folklore belief

A changeling is a creature found in folklore, particularly in European traditions, characterized by a fairy or elf that has been left in place of a human child. Often depicted as a sickly or deformed child, changelings were believed to be the product of a supernatural exchange. Parents would sometimes resort to various rituals or strategies in hopes of reclaiming their real child, who had been taken away by fairies. The belief in changelings reflects deep-seated fears about the vulnerability of children and the unknown aspects of parenthood.

Synonyms

fairy child, impostor, substitute.

Examples of usage

  • The story of the changeling is often recounted in fairy tales.
  • She suspected her baby was a changeling due to its strange behavior.
  • In folklore, a changeling was often left in place of a human baby.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Folklore

  • In many stories, changelings are often described as sickly or strange, making it difficult for the parents to love them.
  • Some cultures held that a changeling could be identified through specific tests, such as asking it to count or recite simple things.

Literature

  • William Shakespeare touched on the theme of changelings in his play 'A Midsummer Nightโ€™s Dream', reflecting on love and identity.
  • In modern literature, changelings appear in various fantasy stories representing themes of identity and belonging.

Psychology

  • The idea of a changeling can symbolize feelings of alienation and the fear of not being understood or accepted for who you are.
  • In some interpretations, the changeling myth serves as a metaphor for the challenges faced by children with disabilities or different needs.

Pop Culture

  • Changelings appear in various movies and TV shows, such as in the 'Harry Potter' series, where creatures can shapeshift.
  • The concept has inspired modern fantasy games and RPGs, where players can take on roles as changelings with unique abilities.

Origin of 'changeling'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'changeling' comes from the Middle English 'changeling', meaning 'to change or exchange'.
  • The concept dates back to old European folklore, where fairies were believed to steal human babies and leave their own in exchange.

The term 'changeling' has its origins in Middle English, derived from the word 'changeling' which means 'to change or exchange.' The concept of changelings dates back to ancient beliefs and mythologies, particularly in Celtic and Germanic cultures, where it was thought that fairies possessed the ability to steal humans, particularly infants, and replace them with their own. This idea was prevalent in the medieval period, where many believed that babies who exhibited unusual traits or illnesses might be changelings. The fear surrounding changelings often reflected societal anxieties about the fragility of infants, and the importance of protecting them from supernatural harm. Additionally, the notion of a changeling was those who could not thrive in the human world and were often seen as signs of misfortune in a family. Over time, such folklore has inspired various forms of literature and entertainment, contributing to modern interpretations of fairy tales.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,386 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.